Hancock might be a small town, but it packs a big culinary punch — the restaurants in Hancock, MI, offer a surprising variety of cuisines. From locally-caught whitefish to Detroit-style pizza and hearty Cornish pasties, there’s something for everyone. We’re even including a couple of coffee shops, in case you’re in the mood for a super-light bite.
Best Restaurants in Hancock, MI
You won’t find any chain restaurants on this list — most of the restaurants in Hancock are independently owned by local residents, so every meal is a labor of love. These are our favorite places to eat in Hancock, Michigan.
Need more options? The restaurants in Houghton, MI, are just a few minutes away.
1. Milly’s
Milly’s offers a type of pizza you won’t find anywhere else in Hancock (or the Keweenaw, for that matter): Detroit-style deep dish, with crispy, cheesy edges. The restaurant is known for its imaginative weekly specials — think asparagus and red potatoes or bacon, shallots, and goat cheese. You can also choose from a small menu or make your own with the creative topping options, many of which are locally sourced. The cup and char pepperoni is particularly delicious.
One thing to note: Milly’s is only open from Wednesday to Saturday. You can order takeout online or enjoy your pizza in the vintage dining room or on the well-shaded outdoor patio. Check the restaurant’s Instagram for the latest specials.
2. La Cantina Mexican Restaurant
La Cantina is the only Mexican restaurant in Hancock, MI — and one of just three in the whole Keweenaw. When you’re craving big portions and a generous helping of rice and beans, this is the place to go. The menu is large and varied, with all of the dishes you’d expect, and the prices are reasonable.
If you’re in the mood for a festive drink, La Cantina has a full bar. Don’t miss the margaritas, which come in a variety of fruit flavors. (The mango and the piña colada are especially delicious.)
3. Four Suns Fish & Chips
Enjoy your dinner with a breeze and a view of the Quincy Mine Hoist at Four Suns Fish & Chips. Located right next to Peterson’s Fish Market on Quincy Hill, this counter-serve spot is super casual and friendly. Sit on the covered porch, or grab a picnic table on the lawn.
We love the whitefish — it comes directly from Lake Superior — paired with sides including baked sweet potatoes, fries, and risotto. If you’re not interested in fish, the restaurant also offers chicken tenders and hot dogs. Keep in mind that Four Suns is a seasonal spot; it opens in mid-June and closes in mid-October. Check the Facebook page for updates.
4. Keweenaw Co-Op Deli
The Co-Op isn’t really a restaurant, but hear us out — when you’re looking for a fresh, healthy takeout meal, the deli is hard to beat. Pick up a hearty sub, and pair it with one of the Co-Op’s homemade desserts; we love the blueberry pie squares, lemon bars, and cherry crisp. The deli also offers premade burritos, salads, and plenty of vegan options. While you wait, explore the unique cheese, beer, and wine selection.
5. Amy J’s Pasty
Amy J’s makes some of the best pasties in the Keweenaw. The bakers use sliced vegetables rather than cubed — which sounds like a small distinction, but it has a big impact on the overall texture. Plus, the meat is nicely distributed and not too chunky. This takeout-only spot is located in a vintage filling station; make sure to check out the homey baked goods while you’re there.
There’s just one catch: Amy J’s is almost never open. If you can manage to find one of the rare windows, though, it’s worth a visit. Grab a few frozen pasties to tide you over!
6. Quincy’s Restaurant and Lounge
The parking lot is always packed at Quincy’s, and it’s easy to see why — the service is friendly, the food is solid, and the atmosphere is relaxed. Expect a standard American menu, with the addition of a few Italian and Mexican dishes. If you happen to be passing by on a Sunday, stop in for the ham or turkey dinner (it has a dedicated local following). If there’s a wait, check out the historical photos and artifacts in the entryway.
7. Nisu Bakery and Café
Enjoy a Finnish or Swedish treat at Nisu Bakery and Café, the newest of the restaurants in Hancock, MI. You can rest assured that it’s authentic — the owner is Finnish, and has lived in both Sweden and Finland. The menu features soups, salads, and sandwiches, and there are plenty of homemade sweet treats from which to choose. (We’re partial to the cake rolls; the lemon-blueberry version is especially good.) Or, come in for a coffee; the restaurant has free Wi-Fi and plenty of room to relax.
Coffee Shops in Hancock, MI
K.C. Bonker’s
Part coffee shop, part toy store, K.C. Bonker’s is the perfect place to spend an hour or two. The coffee drinks are excellent — the baristas take great care in preparing artisan-quality beverages. Our favorite part is the vibe; you’ll often see people working on their laptops, playing one of the in-house board games, or relaxing with a book.
Things to Do Near the Restaurants in Hancock, MI
Looking for something fun to do before or after your meal? Enjoy a walk at one of our favorite places for hiking near Hancock, MI. Alternatively, head to the water for a stroll or a swim at the beaches near Hancock.